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Celebrate July 4th with Gluten Free Recipes to Share

The All-American holiday. A time for grilling, outdoor games, friends, family and oh yes… the stress of not knowing what you’ll be able to eat.

Whether you are throwing the party or you’re attending a friend’s gathering, we’ve got the tips and tricks you need to ensure a stress free holiday celebration!

1. Know who you’re celebrating with. If you’re partying with fellow gluten free-ers, great! However, the majority of us will spend our day with those who have no dietary restrictions – particularly the guest hosting the event! Ask them if you can bring a side dish. They’ll be more than happy to let you help with food prep and you’ll be pleased knowing there is at least one party food you can enjoy. And hey, if you’re feeling up to it, surprise your host and bring a gluten free dessert as well!

2. Accommodate guests but don’t forget about yourself.If you happen to be the one hosting the barbeque, don’t just worry about pleasing your guests with gluten-filled choices. Many side dishes and main courses are naturally gluten free, and even if they’re not, several gluten-free versions taste better and are healthier than their counterparts! Create dishes that are visually appealing and your friends won’t even hesitate to chow down.

3. Make it more than just about food. In America we have the tendency to make holidays and celebrations all about food. While it is fun to indulge in not so typical (and probably not so healthy) grub, be sure to plan a few activities to enjoy the company you are surrounded by and the greatness of such an occasion. Need some ideas? We’ve got you covered! Try ladder ball, corn hole, play frisbee or toss around a football. Feeling adventurous? Set up an outdoor net for multiple uses such as volleyball or badminton!

Now that we’ve calmed your nerves about this great day, here is a complete list of recipes to help you celebrate that are both gluten and dairy free! (After all, many of those with an intolerance to gluten are sensitive to other foods as well.) These recipes, which include the main meals plus side dishes and dessert, will have you jumping for joy as this year’s holiday rolls near.

Grilled Veggie Quinoa Salad – How can you beat this? A powerhouse grain paired with fresh grilled veggies, chopped to perfection and mixed for a mouthful of flavor. This side dish is sure to start appearing for more than just this once-a-year holiday!

Grilled Chipotle Turkey Sliders – A non-traditional approach to the typical barbeque collection, but one that all will be pleased you introduced. The best part, the “slider” size means you can have more than one 😉

Effortless Portobello Burgers – A grilled favorite that meets the needs of any vegetarian but a meal that all are sure to love. The simplicity of this main course will blow you away, especially when you’re guests are insisting on the complexity of flavor.

Berry Tart with Dairy-Free Vanilla Bean Custard – How can we celebrate July 4th without the traditional tart?! No problem here, this tart is colorful enough for the occasion but also meets our dietary needs. Make sure you cut yourself a slice first, it’ll be gone before you know it!

“Toll House” Chocolate Chip Cookies – Last but certainly not least, the traditional chocolate cookies, only these bad boys are allergy free! Enjoy a spoonful of dough before cooking and get an even greater thrill when they are fresh out of the oven. These cookies will be the perfect ending to a most wonderful day.

Whatever your plans, have a great holiday this July 4th, enjoy food friends and all that the day has to offer!